Field Guide: 12th Avenue

A cozy little neighborhood where the mom-and-pop shops are as diverse as they are unique.

Yoga enthusiasts who also want to be comfortable and stylish should visit Momi Chee’s 2008 clothing and wellness boutique, Lily Lotus. “We sell organic, sustainable [clothes] and mats,” says Laura Dunn, a sales rep and yoga instructor. Most of the clothing is made from organic cotton, some even from organic bamboo. Chee also creates new lines, this season Moroccan-inspired kaftans and tunics. Lily Lotus also carries jewelry from local artists. “It’s really a one-stop shop for eco fans for everyday living,” adds Chee. 1127 12th Ave., 735-3400.

Mechahawaii and Urbanz Toys

Photo: David Croxford

If you’re an avid toy collector who died and went to heaven, you’d most likely end up at 1126 12th Ave., home of Mechahawaii and Urbanz Toys. “Half of our clients buy [these] toys for the play factor, half are hardcore collectors,” says Sean Akita, owner of Mechahawaii. He carries everything from $3 Japanese mini plastic collectables foods, to $300 Macross Valkyries, collectable fighting robot toys. Urbanz Toys offers more urban collectables. “We sell art toys based on mostly graffiti and pop surrealism,” says owner Scott Nonaka. 1126 12th Ave.

Photo: David Croxford

Ted's Jewelry

For 19 years Ted Batol has been engraving, soldering and cutting. “He is an extremely artistic guy,” says Greg Lui, the owner of the 12th Ave Chiropractic Center, and Batol’s neighbor and frequent lunch buddy. Ted’s Jewelry specializes in Hawaiian and jade jewelry, but he customizes many pieces and creates his own sterling silver bracelets, necklaces and rings. “It takes me about a day to make them,” says Batol. Repairs included, his jewelry store does it all. 1126 12th Ave., Suite 101, 735-5667.

Did You Know?

Before it was a suburb of Honolulu, Kaimuki was home to King Kalakaua’s ostrich farm.